Grateful Little Elf.

This year we received the "Elf on a Shelf" from Matt's, very generous, Aunt Sandy and Uncle Rudy. We decided to change it up a bit though and soon the "Grateful Little Elf", a new Klasnick family tradition arrived.

Most every day in December the boys would wake up and search for the Elf. As Eli is getting older, they are becoming more competitive.

Once found, Luke would spell out the letters on the clue and sound out the word. The word was always a reminder of something to be grateful for. Once we figured out the word Luke would hang it on our grateful collage and we would come up with a pay it forward type idea for the day. The whole concept centered around the fact that we would help someone that did not have what we were grateful for.

To watch Luke's heart open and his mind come up with ways we could help others was touching. His generosity, foresight and kindness amazed me. For our December to be focused on others and not ourselves was the most wonderful of gifts received.

One trip found us at the neighborhood assisted living center. Luke and Eli arrived with bells on their necks, a smile on their face and candy canes for all of the "grandmas and grandpas." Eli, of course, stayed in momma's arms but I witnessed Luke venturing out~ dancing, carrying on conversations with adults, asking questions and showing his love. The kid landed so many red lipstick kisses he could have been a Revlon model.

The educational aspect of this new tradition was a bonus. The Gathering Place is a day shelter for homeless mothers. Together with Luke's best friend, Dylan, the boy's read through a list of the most needed items at the shelter. The boys were given a budget and taken to the store to make their purchases. They then delivered the items. Reading, math, and lots of fun filled this day.

Although, looking back the most impactful were the discussions that opened up about the way we live. For Luke to realize that not all children wake up in a warm home and open the refrigerator to choose what they want to eat. For some little boys to not have a father to show them love and encouragement or know that there is a God that loves them. For all of these things, and so many more we are so very grateful.